Uncover & Understand
Downtown Cedar Rapids wanted to give a makeover to garbage and recycling containers throughout the city’s core. The containers are a necessity, so they might as well look good. For some, that might have involved just a splash of color and simple instructions, but we saw the potential to go further and be unique to the city. Armed with creative freedom and a deep understanding of CR’s history and eccentricities, we went to work.
Before
Ideate & Implement
Inspired by the city, we crafted several messaging options to capture attention and prompt action. When you have a man-made peak literally named Mt. Trashmore in your city, you pay homage. And when the aroma of Crunch Berries fills the air on random weekdays, you make the most of it.
Refine & Refresh
With a handful of our messages in mind, Downtown Cedar Rapids put it up to a vote, polling their social media followers on which slogans they liked best.
People overwhelmingly gravitated toward two:
Bright brand colors, fun icons, and clever copy always win.
The Refreshingly Meaningful Part
Even garbage can become gold when creativity leads the way. These witty, colorful containers are catching eyes—from passersby to Downtown Farmers Market crowds—and keeping downtown clean.
